5 Things About ‘Black Panther’ That Made Zero Sense and 5 Things That Made Perfect Sense
‘Black Panther’ (2018), directed by Ryan Coogler, brought Wakanda to life with a vibrant cast and a story that resonated deeply, breaking ground as a cultural milestone in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa anchored a film that blended action, tradition, and themes of identity, earning praise for its fresh take on the superhero genre.
Some moments in the movie felt spot-on, capturing the heart of Wakanda’s world, while others left me confused, seeming out of place in an otherwise tight narrative. I’m breaking down five things that didn’t add up and five that worked perfectly, alternating between them for a balanced look.
Ritual Combat for the Throne – Made Zero Sense
Choosing Wakanda’s king through a brutal fight to the death feels odd for a nation so advanced. A society with cutting-edge technology should have a less barbaric way to pick its leader.
This tradition clashes with Wakanda’s progress, making it hard to believe they’d risk their ruler’s life in a physical showdown. It seems like a plot device to create drama rather than a logical part of their culture.
Vibrant World of Wakanda – Made Perfect Sense
Wakanda’s rich, detailed setting, from its bustling markets to its high-tech labs, feels alive and authentic. The blend of African cultural elements with futuristic tech creates a unique, immersive world.
Ruth Carter’s costume designs and Rachel Morrison’s cinematography make every scene visually stunning. This vivid backdrop grounds the story, making Wakanda a character in its own right.
Killmonger’s Sudden Rise – Made Zero Sense
Erik Killmonger, played by Michael B. Jordan, shows up late in the film and quickly challenges T’Challa for the throne. His rapid acceptance as a contender, despite being an outsider, feels rushed and unearned.
Wakanda’s elders barely question his claim, even though he’s a stranger with no ties to their daily life. This leap skips over the political depth you’d expect from a nation so rooted in tradition.
T’Challa’s Leadership Growth – Made Perfect Sense
T’Challa’s journey from a prince grieving his father to a king embracing global responsibility is compelling. Chadwick Boseman brings heart to his struggle, balancing duty with personal growth.
His arc feels natural, as he learns to lead with compassion while facing tough choices. This evolution makes him a relatable hero, grounding the film’s bigger themes.
Klaue’s Underused Role – Made Zero Sense
Ulysses Klaue, portrayed by Andy Serkis, is a chaotic villain who steals the show early on, but his quick exit feels like a missed opportunity. He’s built up as a major threat, then sidelined abruptly.
His vibrant energy could’ve added more tension if he’d stayed longer. Instead, his role feels like a setup for Killmonger, leaving me wanting more from such a dynamic character.
Strong Female Characters – Made Perfect Sense
The women of Wakanda—Nakia, Okoye, and Shuri—shine as fierce, independent figures. Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, and Letitia Wright deliver standout performances, each with their own agency.
From Okoye’s loyal warrior spirit to Shuri’s tech genius, they’re not just sidekicks but key players. Their strength adds depth, making the story richer and more balanced.
Vibranium’s Limitless Power – Made Zero Sense
Vibranium is shown as a near-magical resource, powering everything from weapons to medical tech without clear limits. Its vague, catch-all abilities strain belief, even in a superhero film.
The lack of defined rules for vibranium makes it feel like a convenient fix for any plot hole. A bit more clarity on its properties would’ve made its role less confusing.
Killmonger’s Complex Motives – Made Perfect Sense
Killmonger’s drive to use Wakanda’s power to fight global oppression gives him depth beyond a typical villain. Michael B. Jordan’s passionate performance makes his pain and anger palpable.
His backstory, tied to T’Challa’s father, adds a personal stake to his rebellion. This complexity makes him a standout antagonist, challenging T’Challa’s worldview in a meaningful way.
Heart-Shaped Herb’s Destruction – Made Zero Sense
Killmonger’s order to burn all the heart-shaped herbs, the source of the Black Panther’s powers, happens too quickly and feels reckless. Why destroy a sacred resource with no backup plan?
This choice lacks foresight for a character shown as strategic. It’s a dramatic moment that doesn’t align with his calculated nature, leaving me puzzled.
Cultural Resonance – Made Perfect Sense
The film weaves African traditions, music, and aesthetics into a superhero story, creating a powerful celebration of Black identity. Ludwig Göransson’s score and the cast’s performances amplify this.
It tackles themes like isolationism and responsibility with heart, making Wakanda’s story universally relatable. This cultural depth sets the movie apart, leaving a lasting impact.
What’s your take on ‘Black Panther’—which moments worked for you, or did I miss something that didn’t add up? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
